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William “Bill” Lewis Earls, 44, died peacefully at home in the early hours of Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015. He was born in Lebanon on Aug. 10, 1971. Raised primarily in Brownsville, Bill attended the Brownsville Elementary School. Upon completing his sophomore year at Central Linn High School, he joined the Job Corps. Two years later, Bill obtained a full scholarship to Washington State University located in Pullman, Washington. He would go on to earn a bachelor's degree in physics, math and computer science. Bill did two tours in the Army, 1989-1994, in Desert Strom and Mogadishu and 1997-2000, with the Army Special Forces. He began a career as a stock broker and financial advisor for a firm located in Portland. Life was interrupted by a stroke at the age of 36. What followed over the course of the next eight years, would be a series of medical problems and various diseases, lived out in Corvallis. In spite of it all, William built rockets and launched them at Black Rock, Nevada (The "Rocket Man" in the GT). When he no longer was physically able to continue that, he learned online to roll cigars and started a cigar business. He went to school online and earned a master's degree in theology at U.C. Berkeley. He started in a doctoral program at Grand Canyon University in Arizona, which was well along, but not yet finished. Recently William had opened an online jewelry store on Shopify. He is survived by his partner and caregiver, Chet Earls, his mother and stepfather Brenda and Larry White, a stepsister, three nieces, and five siblings: Barbara, Janis, Daniel, Melburn and Michael.

Peter Grimm (12/14/2015)

Peter Alden Grimm, 74, of Brecksville, Ohio passed away on December 14, 2015. Pete was born in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin to Phillip and Viola Grimm on June 3, 1941. He enjoyed a long career as a Sales Engineer for automated machine tools. He was an avid golfer, loved camping in the National Parks and was an active participant in the North Coast Wood Turners Club. Pete is survived by his children, Paul Grimm (Maria), Jennifer Carroll (Richard) of Stow, Ohio; brother, Noel (Mary) Grimm of Monroeville, PA; and 5 much loved grandchildren, Katherine, David, Aimee, Amanda and Audrey. Friends are invited to Redmon Funeral Home in Stow, Ohio where calling hours will be held on Sunday, December 20th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Memorial donations may be made to the National Park Foundation http://www.nationalparks.org. Learn more.

Ted Bartholomew (12/10/2015)

How do you describe someone like Ted? The best way is to use his own words as published in the Winter 2003 edition of American Woodturner.

“Wally (Dickerman) and I belonged to the Seattle Woodturners at the same time and I learned a lot of good things from him. I started my turning in 1931 and will be 84 in November (2003). I received my first lathe for my 11th birthday and I’ve never been without one since then. My dad built that lathe and powered it with my mother’s washing machine (gas) motor, as we didn’t have electricity. On Mondays, the motor went back on the washing machine so Mother could do the weekly wash. Over the many years of turning our own things, Dad and I built 322 spinning wheels together. He was my woodturning buddy until his 90th birthday, when he gave up turning. I started going to craft shows and now I can be selective about which ones I want to take part in. That led into teaching woodturning. Like Wally, I teach and am in good health and feel that I am in my prime of turning.”

Those of you who knew Ted know that he was a humble man, always willing to share his vast knowledge with others. He has taught literally hundreds of people how to use a lathe. He built his own line of tools and most of them are still in use. What you may not have known was that he built 64 lathes. Some of those are still in use.

Ted was a long time member of the Seattle chapter and of the AAW. He was also one of the founding members of the South Puget Sound chapter and one of its first presidents. Ted never saw a can of Deft that he didn’t like nor a four jaw chuck that he did like. In all the years that I have known Ted, I have never heard him say a bad word about another individual. He was one of the most likeable and knowledgeable people I have ever known. My favorite memory of Ted was watching him prove that it is the presentation not the tool as he turned a rutabaga with an ax.

Born in Michigan on September 14, 1939, Russ died peacefully on December 3, 2015 after a short battle with pancreatic and liver cancer

Russ met and married Doris Ann Dodge, also from Detroit. While they grew up in houses just eight blocks away from one another, they didn't meet until a fateful blind date on New Year's Eve. Married on August 26, 1961, Russ and Doris enjoyed a 54-year partnership.

Russell had countless hobbies. From fly-fishing to boat racing and wood turning, Russ didn't just pursue hobbies; he joined and often led so many organizations in support of them. His life-long love of Michigan lakes and rivers, and the fish that lived within them, provided many hours of joy to Russ, who served as a Commodore at Crescent Sail Yacht Club and member of Trout Unlimited. He also served as President of a Detroit Area Woodturners Club for several years. Almost since the beginning of the Detroit Area Woodturners, Russ served in many roles, including; elected officer, committee head, and board consultant. He was very progressive in trying to advance the woodturners’ skills and knowledge.

~ Roger Meeker, Detroit Area Woodturners

Russ (with his wife Doris) after receiving a platter honoring him for years of dedicated service as president of Detroit Area Woodturners.

John Gorski (11/26/2015)

John Joseph Gorski, Jr., age 71, of Westminster, Maryland, died peacefully on Thursday, November 26, 2015 surrounded by family at his home. Born September 27, 1944 in Wilkes-Barre, PA, he was the son of the late John Joseph Gorski, Sr. and Adele J. (Misewich) Gorski. He was predeceased by his wife, Christina Joene (Prevratil) Gorski. John was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam War. He was retired after 41 years of service with N.S.A. as a site installation engineer. He was an avid fly fisherman, nature enthusiast, and creative woodworker. He also enjoyed bird watching and photography. He was a member of St. John Catholic Church in Westminster, the Audubon Society and Trout Unlimited. Surviving him are children, Deborah Gorski and husband Joe Russell of Baltimore, Paul Gorski and wife Cheryl of Fairfield, PA, and Rebecca Gallagher and husband Joe of Baltimore; step-children, Ted Soltas and wife Monte of Finksburg, Terri Rill and husband Tim of Hampstead, and Lynn Luesse and husband Mark of Westminster; grandchildren, Lauren and Christopher Gorski, Jennifer Armstrong and Brandon Sours, Anastasia Gallagher, Jared and Logan Soltas, Danielle and Desiree Rill, Nick and Erika Luesse; 6 great-grandchildren; sisters, Adele Justice of Virginia Beach, VA and Barbara Hayward of Panama City, FL. John is also remembered by former spouse, Dolores Drumheller. A Prayer Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 2, 2015, from the MYERS-DURBORAW FUNERAL HOME, 91 Willis St, Westminster, MD. Burial will follow in Lakeview Memorial Park in Sykesville. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Contributions may be made to the Audubon Society of Central Maryland, PO Box 660, Mount Airy, MD 21771 or at Audubon.org.

Bernhard Uwe Voss (11/12/2015)

St. Louis, Missouri. Beloved husband of Margaret Peggy Cohen Voss; dear father of Bernhard James Voss and Jeremy Cohen Voss; loving grandfather. Mr. Voss was a lifelong student and teacher, artist and craftsman.

Sigi Angerer (11/8/2015)

Siegfried "Sigi" Angerer, Lucerne, Switzerland, passed away on November 8, 2015. No other details are available at this time.

Dietmar Hans Holzer (October 2015)

Dietmar Hans Holzer, aged 75 from Austria, passed away in October 2015 after a short illness, surrounded by his wife Denise and their daughter Fleur. He was a member of the AAW since June 2014 and before that he was involved in Woodturners’ exhibitions in the US and Europe. Dietmar was the Managing Director of Optigrind Limited in England and Holzer Hartstofftechnik in Austria. He was famous for the development of high quality European made CBN wheels. His love of America arose when he moved with his family to live in Michigan in 1980. There he ran a machine tool business on behalf of German company. His success in the woodturning industry came in later life in his retirement, when he worked hard to build a business for his daughter to run in England. He made many life-long friends and acquaintances in Michigan and throughout America. America was Dietmar’s spiritual home and he loved nothing more than touring the country to meet new people, hear their tales, and discover all the beautiful places. He would always return with cowboy hats and boots, and was particularly fond of anything handmade, including strummers, belt buckles, and moccasins. He will be deeply missed and always remembered by his friends and family.

~ Fleur Walton (Daughter)

Max Edward Heinly (10/20/2015)

Max Edward Heinly, 86, of Manhattan, passed away on, Tuesday, October 20, 2015. Max was born in Little River, Kansas on June 14, 1929, the son of the late Helen (Brayton) Heinly and Clarence O. Heinly. He graduated from Little River High School in 1947, with the first 8 grades in a country school. On August 17, 1952, he was united in marriage to Freda KayAnn Montieth in Wichita Falls, Texas. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Manhattan. He served in the U.S. Air Force as a SSG during the Korean Conflict. Max was a farmer, between 1954-1968. Max and KayAnn then moved to Manhattan, where he took the position as a Kansas State University swine herdsman for 6 years. He then worked as a truck driver for the State and Federal Highways until 1992 when he retired. After his retirement, Max became interested in turning wood on a lathe. He became a member of the American Association of Woodturners in 1992. Max will be placed in a cremation urn that he made. ~ Bob Holcombe

Richard Giery (10/04/2015)

Richard “Rick” Vincent Giery of St. Simons Island, Ga., passed away on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2015. He was the devoted husband to Katharine “Kit” Giery, and son of Daisy Astrid Giery and the late Edward Gerard Giery Jr.

Rick was born on Long Island, grew up in Milwaukee, attended Marquette High School and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He had lived on St. Simons Island, Ga., since 1985. Rick made his living as a CPA for more than 30 years, but made his life as a loving, dedicated and devoted husband, father, son, brother and friend. He was a Southern gentleman adored by everyone who knew him. Rick led by example a life of honesty, integrity, kindness and loyalty that will be remembered by all who loved him. He was an avid hunter and gifted woodworker who loved to travel, experiment in the kitchen, and read on a wide variety of subjects. He was the rock, the steady, the true north to so many, and he will be missed forever.

John Evans Beall passed away in his home in Paso Robles, Calif., surrounded by family on September 24, 2015. He was 72. John was born to Opal Violet and John G. Beall, MD in Ann Arbor, Mich. He married his best friend, Sandra Smith, in 1964. He graduated from Montana State University with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering, and worked for PG&E for 22 years before retiring in 2005. He was active at his church, St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in PR, Knights of Columbus, and the Wood Turning Club. John was an avid wood worker, golfer, and loved playing video games with his grandkids and godson. He completely built the family's log home in Montana. Most of all, he loved being a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He went to as many of his kids and grandkids sports and activities as possible, was a patient teacher, and generous giver. John is survived by his wife, Sandy; his brother, Bob (Annie) of Kalispell, Mont.; daughters, Chris (Jason) Hartford of Fair Oaks, Calif., and Barbara (Ren‚) Oliver of Paso Robles; grandchildren: Rebekah, Natasha, and Mikayla Hartford, and Johnathan (Jono), Benjamin, and Joshua Oliver; great-grandson Noah Hartford, and numerous other extended family members. His parents and his sister, Betty Kelsch, and nephews, John and Michael Kelsch, preceded him in death. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Paso Robles. Sign his guestbook.

Ray Leier (09/6/2015)

We are sad to share the news that Ray Leier, 68, founder of DelMano Gallery and an early and
persistent proponent of woodturning and wood art, died suddenly of a heart
attack on Sunday, September 6. A member and supporter of the AAW since its very beginning,
Ray had a big personality and a keen eye for talent, and he was instrumental in
the development of the field of studio turning. We wish his beloved Mikki well
during this difficult time and in days to come.

We will share more information as it becomes
available.

Clay Gardner Crowder (08/06/2015)

Clay Gardner Crowder, died Thursday, August 6, 2015 at 78 years of age following an extended illness. He left this world peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife and children. A third-generation doctor in Blount County, he was a Pediatrician in Blount County for 40 years. He was known as a kind and caring doctor, a brilliant diagnostician, a child behavioral health specialist and a driving force for the betterment of community healthcare services.

He graduated from Maryville High School in 1955. He attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville as an undergraduate and then the University of Tennessee Medical School in Memphis. After medical school, he joined the Air Force, in which he served as a General Medical Practitioner at Orlando Air Force Base. He was honorably discharged as a Captain in 1966. He completed his residency as a Pediatrician at the University of Tennessee Medical Center and then went into private practice in Maryville.

Throughout his career, Dr. Crowder was dedicated to serving the underserved and the underinsured. In the last years of his career, he was a leader for the Blount County Good Samaritan Clinic, which offers free and discounted medications, services, and other resources to those who need them. He served in various leadership and teaching capacities at Blount Memorial Hospital, Children's Hospital, and the University of Tennessee Medical Center. Upon retirement, he was honored by the Tennessee Hospital Association, the Blount Memorial Foundation, and by Joint Resolution in the Tennessee State Legislature.

Outside of Pediatrics, Dr.Crowder's principal avocation was woodworking, specifically woodturning and clock-making. Primarily self-taught, he learned a great deal from other woodturners across the Southeast, and he both took and assisted in teaching classes at the Arrowmont School for Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg. Woodturners' Resource reported, "The pieces that he has created on the lathe are simply incredible." Dr. Crowder was a juried member of the East Tennessee Woodturners' Guild in Knoxville. His pieces are prized for their natural beauty and artistic qualities.

Dale Gay, former member of the Azalea Woodturners, Mobile, AL, passed July 28, 2015. He will be missed by family and friends. ~ Bradley Swiger

Robert Mach (06/13/2015)

It is with much sadness to inform you that Bob Mach passed away last Saturday, June 13, 2015. He was working in his yard when he suffered a heart attack. Bob has been an active member of Northwest Woodturners for at least 10 years, and has served on the Board of Directors six out of the last seven years. He was also a member of Cascade Woodturners. Bob will be missed by all who knew him. Details about his service will be passed on when they become available. ~ Jim Schoeffel

Joe Cornwell Gettys, 79, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., died April 16, 2015. He was born and raised in Shelby, NC. He graduated from NC State with a degree in mechanical engineering and was a test engineer at Pratt & Whitney. He is survived by wife, Nancy; daughter, Lyn (Jody); son, Tod (Kay); grandchildren, Myke, Nick and Katie; sister, Anne DuBois of St. Petersburg, Fla.; niece, Donna Hord; nephews, David and Steve Bettis of Shelby. He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude an Mattie Gettys; brother, Carl; and sister, Jean Bettis.

Robert A. (Bob) Pastel (04/02/2015)

Bob died Thursday, April 2, surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his wife of sixty-eight years, Bernice Lawrence (Bea) Pastel. Bob was born in Coulterville, IL, on October 27, 1925, and has been an area resident for over sixty years.

He is a graduate of Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, NY. Bob did his internship in Indianapolis, IN, and his residency in Rockford, IL, specializing in pediatrics. Bob served in the US Navy while in medical school and served in the US Air Force after residency, stationed in Japan and Guam. He served as chief of pediatrics at St. Joseph’s Hospital and as an adjunct professor at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse. He retired from practice in 1997.

Bob used his medical skills in service to people worldwide with SS Hope in Tunisia; CARE/MEDICO in Indonesia, Honduras, and Peru; Indian Medical Service in New Mexico; and personally in the Gambia. Bob was an accomplished woodturner; he won a blue ribbon at the New York State Fair and also won a juried art show. He was a founding member and past officer of the Central New York Woodturner’s Association. Bob enjoyed playing bridge and was a member of the Town of Clay Bridge Club and hosted Thursday Duplicate Group. Bob was involved with the Syracuse Peace Council, Boy Scouts of America, and antidiscrimination organizations in Syracuse for fair housing and for voting rights. He was an ardent naturalist and took several courses at the New York College of Forestry, including courses on fern identification and anthropology. His hobbies included camping, canoeing, carpentry, painting, travel, wine making, bird watching, and cross-country skiing.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Doctors Without Borders (www.doctorswithoutborders.org) or American Association of Woodturners Program for Youth and Students. (www.woodturner.org). Calling hours will be from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, at the Maurer Funeral Home, 300 Second St., Liverpool. A memorial service will be scheduled for the summer.

Dan Odegard (03/31/2015)

The AAW home office offers condolences to staff members Tib Shaw and Sophie Wozniak. Tib's beloved partner of ten years, Dan Odegard, passed away on March 31st. Dan died in home hospice surrounded by loving family, five years after having been diagnosed with multiple myeloma. In addition to Tib, Dan is survived by his son, Peter (Ashley) and grandson, Arlo; daughter, Zoe; and stepdaughters Sophie and Kate Wozniak. Dan's Caringbridge page.

John Ruttan (03/21/2015)

John , an active member of the Central New York Woodturners, passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 21, 2015. John helped out every year demonstrating woodturning on a treadle lathe during the 12 days of the New York State Fair (the accompanying photo is from the 2014 event).

~ Barbara Raymond-LaPrease

John Ruttan was born in Oswego, he was the son of the late George and Lulu (Noerr) Ruttan. He worked as an Industrial Mechanic for Alcan retiring after 30 years. Post retirement, John pursued his love of woodworking by making beautiful one of a kind pieces that he sold around New York State at craft shows. Most recently he worked and sold his art at Lakeside Artisans in downtown Oswego. John was often called MacGyver by his family because he could fix anything and would help anyone that needed it. John will be missed greatly and may he be forever eating popcorn, drinking Pepsi and making art. John adored his wife Noreen and was married for 48 years. Noreen and John were married on January 28, 1967 in an Oswego style snowstorm. Surviving are his wife, Noreen (Callaghan) Ruttan; a daughter, Julie Ruttan of Albany; two sons, Bryan Ruttan and Stephen Ruttan and fiancé Jennifer DeLong, all of Oswego; two sisters, Carol (Alan) Todd and Beverly Goewey, both of Oswego; a brother, William Ruttan Sr.; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a sister-in-law, Mary Jane Ruttan. Calling hours will be held 3-7 p.m. Wednesday, with a service to follow, at the Nelson Funeral Home, 11 West Albany St. Oswego. Spring burial will be in Oswego Town Rural Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Foundation for Upstate Medical University, 750 E. Adams St., CAB326, Syracuse, NY 13210.

Ret. Col. Burt Dall (March 15, 2015)

Burt Dall of Arnold, Maryland passed away from cancer on March 15, 2015. He was 87 years old.

Burt was born Cesar Hannibal Sotomayor to John and Rosalia Sotomayor on April 10, 1927 in New York City. He was the fourth of five siblings, with older sisters Paquita, Josephine, and Lydia, and younger brother John. He was married to his beloved wife, Shirley Ada Lantz of Edgewood, Maryland, from 1950 until her death on February 6, 2001.

Burt leaves behind his children, Owen, Robert, Cindy and Nancy; his daughter-in-laws, Kerry and Karen; his son-in-law, Wayne; his grandchildren, Katie, Emily and Kainoa; his step-grandchildren, Erin, Ellen, Matthew and Kaylyne; his brother John and his wife Jane, and their children and grandchildren; his cousins Diana, Evelyn, Richard, and Fred and their children; and many other family and friends who loved him dearly.

After graduating high school from the Bronx High School of Commerce, Burt was deployed with the US Army of Occupation at the end of World War II. Burt continued to serve in the US Army for 35 years, serving in both the Korean Vietnam Wars, receiving several meritorious awards, including the Bronze Star and Legion of Merit, throughout his distinguished career. Burt also attended night school during his service, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland. He retired as a full colonel in 1981 as Deputy Post Commander of Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.

After he retired, Burt studied at the Appalachian Center for Craft, in Smithville, Tennessee, where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree specializing in woodworking. After moving to Arnold, Maryland in 1990, Burt began attending classes at Anne Arundel Community College where he developed many strong friendships, a love for reading and writing poetry, and began anonymously funding a scholarship for the arts.

Viewing and funeral services will be held at Barranco and Sons Funeral Home in Severna Park, Maryland. Friends and family are welcomed to visit on Saturday, March 28 from 2-4 p.m. and Sunday, March 29 from 12-1 p.m. The service will be held on Sunday, March 29 at 1 p.m., directly after the Sunday visitation hour. Friends and family are invited to a reception at Burt Dall’s home in Arnold, Maryland after the service. Inurnment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Burt Dall’s memory be made to the Scholarship for the Arts. Donations may be sent to the Anne Arundel Community College Foundation, ICOX Building, 101 College Parkway, Arnold, MD 21012 or may

Ray Eugene Logue, 83, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2015. He was a member of the Quad State Bodgers Woodturning Club of Cumberland, Maryland, and owner of Logue's Cabinet Shop in Ellerslie, Maryland.

Ray allowed us (The Quad State Bodgers Wood-turning Club) to use his shop for our monthly Saturday meetings and we held many day-long workshops there as well. He was very generous and a gracious host. Ray subscribed to most woodworking magazines and was continually experimenting with different ideas and designs. The walls of his shop were lined with patterns and jigs of all shapes, types, and sizes, everything from complex Sanctuary Windsor chair seats to simple hanging plant holders.

Ray was a true craftsman of the highest order and more than willing to freely share his many year's of experience in the field of woodworking.

When Ray made a statement related to woodworking, everyone strained to listen because they knew he knew what he was talking about. One quick simple example, at one club meeting I asked the group how I could keep my CA glue bottle from clogging. From the back of the room I heard a very deep
masculine voice say, "You treat it like a baby!" It was Ray. When I asked him what he meant, he replied, "Hold it tight and gently burp it three times." So, following Ray's advice now, whenever I finishing with my CA bottle, I hold it tight and gently "burp it" (tap the bottom of the bottle on the workbench until the spout is clear).

Kenneth Keusch died on February 8, 2015, after a long and grueling battle with cancer. He was just shy of 80 when he passed away. Born in the Bronx to Harry and Ida Keusch, Ken graduated from New York University in 1954. He moved to Miami in 1959 to attend medical school at the University of Miami, where he graduated with honors in 1963. After spending time overseas as a doctor in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, he and his family settled back in Miami and he joined the in-house radiology group at Cedars of Lebanon Hospital, where he practiced until he retired in 1995. In 1969 Ken and his family moved to Pinecrest, where he lived for the rest of his life. Ken was many things: A fine physician, a scholar of many varied subjects, an art connoisseur, an artist himself in various media including wood turning and sculpture, a woodworker and woodcraftsman, a world traveler, a Mac guru, a Sean Connery lookalike, and a storyteller par excellence. Most of all he was a wonderful and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by Joyce, his loving wife of over fifty-four years, his children Jordan and Kathy, his daughter-in-law Michele, his grandchildren Ilana and Jonas, and all those whose lives he touched and who touched his as well. As per Ken's wishes, there will be no funeral and the family will not be sitting shiva. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of food or flowers, please make a donation to Seasons Hospice Foundation, 5200 N.E. 2nd Ave., Miami, FL 33137, or to the charity or cause of your choice.

Bernard “Bernie” Grahek (1/31/2015)

Bernard “Bernie” Grahek, 63, of Eveleth, passed away Saturday, January 31, 2015, surrounded by family after a short illness. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at Range Funeral Home in Virginia at 10:00 am with visitation one hour prior. Pastor Joe Campbell will officiate. Arrangements are with Range Funeral Home in Virginia. To sign the online guest book or to send condolences, please visit www.rangefuneralhomes.com.

Bernie Grahek was born June 17, 1951 to Theodore and Teresa (Redd) Grahek. He grew up and graduated from Gilbert High School in 1969. He met and was united in marriage to Mary Kay Pavelich on February 12, 1971. Bernie attended and graduated from Bemidji State University in 1973. His career took them to Austin MN, Apple Valley CA, and then back to the Iron Range.

In his retirement, Bernie enjoyed spending time in his wood working shop and loved to fish; going on many fishing trips. In 2013, he and Mary spent a month driving to Alaska and back, having many adventures along the way.

Gerry lost his battle with leukemia and is now at peace. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Sharon; his daughter Olivia, sisters Louise and Elizabeth, his brother Sam (Dorothy), his niece Alicia; his nephews Bryan (Dannette), Mervyn (Maria), Malcolm (Heather), Duncan (Kareen), 8 grand-nieces, 2 grand-nephews, and can’t forget Robert and Dennis, his borrowed sons.

Gerry was raised in Port McNeill and eventually made Port Alice, BC his home. Gerry was a wood turner, a voracious reader, an astute crossword puzzler and an avid veggie gardener. He loved his morning hikes with “whoever showed up” and all the dogs. His family meant the world to him.

At his request, there will be no memorial service. Celebrate his generous and loving spirit by performing random acts of kindness towards friends and strangers alike. Gerry is loved and will be sorely missed.

Giles Gilson (01/20/2015)
Giles Gilson died January 20, 2015, at his home in Schenectady, New York. An AAW member since 1986, Giles was awarded a POP Fellowship Award in 2006 and earned the distinction of Honorary Lifetime Member in 2009.

It always hurts when you lose a very close friend, especially when he was a brother in the arts. And when that friend was also a true icon in your field, it stings.

Giles was a revolutionary, a daring bandit of creative ideas that were so ahead of their time, woodturners often rejected his work as being too modern, too avant-garde, too off the wall… too innovative. He was the first to use paint on his turned wood pieces, specifically transparent automotive lacquer, which changed color as you walked around a piece; the first to incorporate materials like Plexiglass, fiberglass cloth, and metals; and the first to use humor in his artwork, like a turned jar that was actually a jewelry box. You raised the lid and a tiny box popped up from inside with a tiny door, which, when opened, engaged a hinged shelf that would drop the jewels into the jar below.

Giles was a consummate 24/7 artist who lived alone in his studio in Schenectady, New York. The range of his creativity went beyond wood into metals, plastics, computers, and film. He rarely slept. His artistry was supported by his drive for superior craftsmanship in everything he did. Often considered a lovable wild man, a product of the ‘60s, his passions were old cars, old airplanes, and RCAs (radio controlled aircraft). He had an RCA helicopter that he once flew inside his studio… once! He also built a prototype racecar inside his studio for Honda Corporation (for which he never got paid). He had a succession of old Jeep Cherokees in various stages of drivability—all lined up in his driveway until a tree came down in a storm and crushed them all. But his crown prize was a ’32 Ford “deuce coup” that he rebuilt piece-by-piece, part-by-part. He had only a few months to enjoy it before his death.

Stories? Sure. How about the message on his answering machine: “Hello, this is Giles… Leave your name and credit card number and I’ll get back to you real soon.” Or, when asked where he got his ideas: “Hell, they’re chasing me down the street.” Or, when demonstrating turning a walnut vase during a workshop and someone asked how he was going to finish it, he covered the entire surface with Elmer’s glue, picked up a handful of turned shavings off the floor, tapped them down carefully over the sticky surface, and calmly declared, “It’s finished.” And, of course, one of the many times I visited and slept on a lumpy antique mattress with no box springs on the floor of his guestroom, I was awakened by the itch of a deer tick buried in my butt. And, yes, he dug it out with a pair of pliers that he quickly ground down to look something like tweezers. Anesthetic? Of course… 90 proof!

The woodturning field has been greatly enriched by Giles’ energy, vision, perseverance, passion, humor, and the guts to go where no man has gone before. As Kevin Wallace said, Giles was a true American original. So the next time we think about using color in our work, or have what we think might be a crazy idea, or if we’re at all hesitant to go in a new direction, think about Giles. His influence is everywhere and permanently embedded in our field.

~ David Ellsworth

Photo: Terry Martin

Paul D. Porter (1/15/2015)

Paul D. Porter, 81, passed away in his sleep January 15, 2015. He was born in Houlton on February 17, 1933, the son of Herman and Mary Ellen Robinson Porter.

Paul was valedictorian of the Class of 1951 at Houlton High School. He earned a degree in mathematics from Bowdoin College where he was a member of the R.O.T.C. program, graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Following graduation he served two years active duty as a Signal Corps Officer at the Tobyhanna Signal Depot in Pennsylvania.

Following that assignment Paul taught math for two years at Houlton High School, before securing a grant from the National Science Foundation for a summer session at Bowdoin and then a year long grant to complete his masters in education degree at Brown University. He then embarked on a distinguished 38 year-long career at Lawrenceville School; a private day and boarding school in New Jersey. He was chairman of the math department for 13 years, dean of studies and assistant dean of students. Paul received the Master Award for outstanding teaching.

One special interest for Paul was the Lawrenceville School Camp for under privileged children that is more than 100 years old. Paul was honored to have the athletic field named, “Porter’s Field” for his longtime dedication and interest in children.

During his teaching career he participated in three sabbaticals, spending time in Europe, Hawaii and an adventure of a life-time, sailing with a former Lawrenceville colleague from Mobile, AL to Plymouth, England on a 35-foot sailboat.

Retiring full-time to Maine in 1998 he became involved with the Star Bright Children’s Theatre, Nickerson Lake Preservation, United Methodist Church, Aroostook Historical Society, Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum ,the Houlton High School Alumni Association also he was a member of the Houlton Lodge of Elks and Monument Lodge #96 AF & AM. His passion for wood turning lead him to help organize the Northern Maine Woodturners in 2010. Paul spent many hours at his lathe in his cellar workshop; his favorite place to be.

In 2009 Paul received the Paul Harris Fellow Award from Houlton Rotary Club, an award presented to a deserving community member who exemplifies the Rotary motto, “Service above self”. Learn more.

Josef V. Ugro (01/16/2015)

Josef V. Ugro Jr. age 76 of Mahtomedi died January 16, 2015. He was born the son of Joseph V. Ugro and Daphne P. Arey in Portland, ME. Josef is survived by his wife, Gail A. Ugro of Mahtomedi: four children Josef V III and his wife Bonnie of North St. Paul, Gene V. of Madison, WI, David B. of St. Paul and Dianna L. Christian and her husband Andrew of South St. Paul: 5 grandchildren Josef V. (Alissa), Michael R. of North St. Paul, Jaymie L, Nathan J. and Eli J., all of St. Paul: great-grandson Josef V. ; four sisters, Geraldine Deluca of Oxford, CT, Valerie Ugro of Fairfax, VT, Joan Sturgeon of Bangor, ME, Christine Smith of Burlington, ME; two brothers Victor Ugro of Casper, WY, and Alvin J. MacNevin of Bangor, ME. Josef graduated from Warren Harding High in Bridgeport, CT, Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and Iowa State University in Ames, IA. At his request, there will be a private burial at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, Mahtomedi, MN. Learn more.

Robert "Bob" Vaughan (01/15/2015)Robert “Bob” Vaughan passed away on January 15, 2015. Bob joined AAW in 1995. He was a founding member of the Magnolia woodturning club (Jackson MS, the Lighthouse woodturning club (D’Iberville, MS) and the Azalea woodturning club (Mobile, Al). He was also a longtime member of IWCS. Bob was a man of many talents. He started woodturning as a teenager and built his first lathe with wood from plans he found in a Mechanic Illustrated magazine. This all wood lathe starting him on a lifelong interest in woodturning. He built and helped others build homemade rose engines and many and varied turning tools. He built carbide turning tools long before they were available commercially. He was also a very accomplished machinist. He had an interest in aviation being a private pilot and built and restored a number of airplanes. He gave away antique aircraft parts to anyone who had a need. He also collected antique cars. Bob was a valued member of his woodturning clubs and was always there to help another member with a project. A generous and charitable man his passing leaves a large hole in the woodturning community.

Charles P. Smith, 79, of Glenwood, Iowa, passed away on December 28, 2014 at Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs. Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2015 at the Loess Hills Funeral and Cremation Center in Glenwood. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. More information.

Gary Lagstrom (12/1/2014)Gary Lagstrom, 67, died peacefully at home of natural causes on Dec. 1, 2014. Born Gary Mason Ackles, on Nov. 27, 1947, in Elmira, N.Y., he was raised by his stepfather, Peter and mother, Florence Lagstrom. Gary is survived by his wife, Laura; and children, Neil Lagstrom (Cindy), Letitia Brisson (Joel) and Gary Lagstrom Jr. (Michelle); and daughter-in-law, Angelle Lagstrom; and nine grandchildren, Jessie, Josiah, Matthew, Lelaina, Elijah, Skylar, Jonah, Silas and Isaac; his stepfather, Peter Lagstrom; and brothers and sisters, Janice Evans, Bob Lagstrom, Sandy Cunningham, Eric Lagstrom, Alvin Lagstrom, Calvin Lagstrom and Cecilia Cascella. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Ackles; mother, Florence; and beloved son, Mason. Gary had a deep personal relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was an elder at The Crossing at Birchwood, a teacher and mentor to many. He was married to his wife and best friend for 40 years. They enjoyed traveling, camping, dipnetting, four-wheeling and especially spending time with their children and grandchildren. His grandchildren were the apple of his eye. He treated everyone he came in contact with love and concern and lived everyday reaching out to bless people. He had an outstanding work ethic and was an excellent mechanic. He could troubleshoot anything. He graduated from Tully High School in Tully, N.Y., in 1965, and attended Oklahoma City University until he enlisted in the United States Air Force in July 1966. After 21 years, he retired in 1987. He began a second career of federal service and retired in 2010. Gary began turning wood in 2005, and was a member of the American and Alaskan Association of Woodturners. He generously gave his woodwork to many and mentored several of his friends. He used his hobby to tangibly convey the love and genuine concern he had for others. Besides his travel in the Air Force, Gary traveled to Peru, Surinam, Costa Rica, Belize and the Navajo Indian Reservation for missions. The funeral service will be held on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014, at 2 p.m. at the Crossing at Birchwood. Viewing will be from 1:30 p.m. - 2 p.m. Burial will be on Monday, Dec. 8, 2014, at 10 a.m. at Fort Richardson. Attendees need to be at the gate at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Crossing at Birchwood Misson's Fund. Learn more.

Norm Rose (11/23/2014)

Norm Rose, the pioneer of the “A,B,C” method of teaching woodturning, passed away on November 23, 2014 after a short battle with cancer. Norm was a great teacher and promoter of the woodturning craft. To this day many turners, including many world renowned turners, use his “ABC” method (Anchor, Bevel, Cut) to teach others the proper use their turning tools. When he wasn’t in the shop teaching or turning, Norm was a hospice nurse for children. In his everyday life as a nurse he touched and helped untold numbers of people and families in the most difficult times of their lives.

A memorial service has been planned to celebrate this extraordinary man’s life. The celebration will be on Saturday, the 17th of January, at 1PM. It will take place at the clubhouse at The Top of the World, in Clearwater, Florida. The entrance is located off of Sunset Point Rd., at World Parkway Blvd, west of US Hwy 19. I am sure you can get directions to the clubhouse from the guard at the gate.

Norm was my best friend and my mentor in woodturning. We met arguing over a bottle of Drambuie in a hotel bar in Dayton Ohio, just down the street from Shopsmith headquarters. The day after we first crossed paths, he shared with me that there was more to turning than just the baby rattle we turned in the Shopsmith demo. The little table in the corner of that bar witnessed my exposure to the world of woodturning and birthed a friendship that spanned almost 25 years. Ironically we were only physically in the same place 4 times in all those years, counting the time in Dayton. Each of the other times we shared were at AAW symposiums over the past 9 years. I hold dear the journey that our friendship has been and I treasure my walk thru the world of woodturning that my friend pushed me into from that table.

If you would like to send a card of condolence to Norm’s companion, Nancy Douglas, you can send them in care of me at the address below and I will gather them together and get them to her.

Lawrence R. Gonyea (11/02/2014)Lawrence R. Gonyea, 72, passed away on Sunday November 2 at his home in Glen Falls, NY. Born on February 11, 1942 in Hudson Falls he was the son of Leon L. and Edna (Benton) Gonyea. Larry loved many things like traveling, woodturning, oil painting and riding his Honda Goldwing. This summer, during Americade, he had murals hand painted on his Goldwing of all the wars since World War II as a tribute to veterans. He served as PFC in the Army National Guard of New York before being honorably discharged. He was a member of Chapter N of GWRRA, a Patriot Guard Ride Captain, and a member of Space Coast Woodturners. More.

Hardie Doshier (10/26/2014)
Hardie was born April 22, 1942, in National City, Calif., to Hershel and Ollie Doshier, and passed away on October 26, 2014. He was a resident of Fairfield, California.

Hardie worked many years as a rigger for Mare Island and eventually retired there. He loved fishing and woodworking. Hardie was a wonderful father and grandfather and will truly be missed by all who knew him.

Paul Bemman of Holly, MI passed away on October 8, 2014; he was born in Pontiac on January 16, 1942. The son of Kurt and Adeline Bemman. He graduated from Pontiac Northern and then attended Lawrence Tech. He served his apprenticeship thru Pontiac Motors and worked at Pontiac Motors for 38 years as a machinist die maker, retiring in 2000.

Mark D. Ost (Feb 10, 2014)
Dr. Mark, 81, of Pineville MO, passed away at Freeman West Hospital in Neosho. Mark was a member of the AAW and a founding and valued member of the Stateline Woodturners in Northwest Arkansas. He held monthly hands-on classes at his workshop for the Stateline Woodturners and day classes with many visiting turners. Much of the success and growth of the Stateline Woodturners is because of his sharing the passion he had for woodturning. Mark will be missed by many in the turning community.

Ray Conklin (Oct 13, 2013)
Ray was an attentive learner at his dad's knee in the workshop. Utilizing the skills learned from his father, in later life Ray developed into a master woodturner. He was active in the Melbourne Chapter of the AAW, an AAW member since 2003. Ray planned, coordinated, and executed numerous projects undertaken by the chapter. He received many accolades for his work, including Artist of the Month at the Orlando Museum of Art (vintage turn of the 20th century fire truck), Best in Show at a multi-state competition, and Best Technical Achievement (full-sized lathe). For his contributions to the local organization, Ray was awarded with a lifetime membership.

George Feldman (Sep 20, 2013)
AAW member since 2009 and member of the Northeast Florida Woodturners Association (Jacksonville FL) and the Brasstown Woodturners Guild (Brasstown NC).

Peter Fedrigon (Aug 23, 2013)
Following a heart attack after a fall ... an AAW member since September 1992. He was an avid woodturner and woodcarver. He was a founding member of the Central New York Wood Turners Club - a major contributor to its success - and a longtime member of the AAW. He worked for Graham Manufacturing in Batavia NY, operated his own engineering consulting company for 20 years, and co-founded Oneida Air Systems in Syracuse NY.

Tim Morris (Jul 30, 2013)
AAW member since 2000 and treasurer of the Michigan Association of Woodturners.

Edmond S. Morgan (Jul 8, 2013)
Edmund S. Morgan, a leading scholar of the colonial era who helped reinvigorate the reputations of the founding fathers, probed the country's racial and religious origins and, in his 80s, wrote a best-selling biography of Benjamin Franklin, has died in Connecticut. He was 97. A professor emeritus at Yale University, he was a frequent contributor to The New York Review of Books and author of more than a dozen books, including "Birth of the Republic," "The Puritan Dilemma" and "Inventing the People," winner in 1989 of the Bancroft Prize. His other awards included a National Medal of the Humanities in 2000 and an honorary citation from Pulitzer Prize officials in 2006 for his "creative and deeply influential body of work."

David Peebles (Jun 15, 2013)
David Peebles of Lyons OH passed away at the age of 59 from complications related to lung cancer. David graduated from Evergreen in 1972 via Four County Career Center, where he was honored as a Wall of Fame recipient in 2005 for his artistic accomplishments. He was a highly respected and incredibly talented woodworker and had many great friends from that creative community. Over the course of his life, David played drums like a hurricane, raced muscle cars, dabbled in pottery, rode a Harley, cleaned chimneys, and worked construction. He loved The Who, the Detroit Tigers, animals (especially his cat Trixie), the Ohio State Buckeyes, and brainstorming new inventions.

Dale Nish (May 26, 2013)
There are some true woodturning legends in our field, and one of them, Dale Nish, passed away unexpectedly. A turner, a teacher, a collector, an organizer, a businessman, and a good man, he led by example and spirit. We are saddened by this news and are passing along his son’s message.
Our father and good friend Dale Nish passed away Saturday night. It was a very unexpected thing. He was turning in his shop on Saturday afternoon, then began to feel ill, so he was taken to the hospital for what was expected to be a 5-day stay to clear a blood clot in his lung. He passed away at midnight. We will miss him greatly, and our family is most appreciative for your friendship and kindness shown to Dale throughout his life. Sincerely, Darrel Nish

Dale became interested in woodworking while in high school in Alberta, Canada. He pursued woodworking into a teaching career, eventually becoming a professor at Brigham Young University in Provo UT, where he taught for 28 years, retiring in 1995. A prolific writer, Dale authored four benchmark books, the most popular of which was Creative Woodturning. These books served to inspire and instruct aspiring woodturners, as did his lectures and demonstrations at universities and many of the leading arts and craft schools. In 1979, Dale inaugurated the Utah Woodturning Symposium, which he directed for 19 consecutive years. In the late 1970s, Dale developed an interest in bowls turned from flawed wood, especially wormy ash, which has become a signature piece. In 1993, the AAW Board of Directors recognized Dale an Honorary Lifetime Membership. The funeral was June 1 in Provo UT. Dale Larson, President, AAW Board of Directors

Paul Wergin (May 7, 2013)
Of Greenwood SC, Paul had a degree in Engineering and was retired from Western Electric and Gimes Aviation. He and a partner built an electric car in the early 1970s, which he grove to work for several years. He was an Army veteran. Paul was involved with Habitat for Humanity, where he served as President of the Board and organized the Re-Store. He delivered Meals on Wheels for seven years and worked for a number of years as the United Ministries Food Bank manager. Paul’s great love was woodworking. He began and organized The Council of Lakelands Area Woodworkers, serving as President and Secretary. He joined the AAW in April 2010.

Earl Powell (May 7, 2013)
Earl passed away at his home with his wife and son by his side. Earl was a furniture maker and a woodturner who built his dream brookside studio behind his home in Winchester MA. He was a member of Furniture Society, the AAW, Central New England Woodturners, and Collectors of Wood Art. He was involved in activities at the Fuller Craft Museum and brought his warmth and generosity of spirit to the FCM Exhibitions Committee. Earl was one of the invited artists in the "Walk in the Woods” at the 2012 AAW San José symposium. He was a talented artist, had great sense of humor, and will be sorely missed by many.

Robert Richa (May 3, 2013)
Topeka KS. Bob was the president of the Kansas Association of Woodturners.

Donald Manz (Apr 11, 2013)
Donald Manz passed away at his home in Oconto WI. He will be remembered by those who knew him as a close friend and an avid collector of wood, woodworking tools, and wood art. Don joined the AAW in March 1987, membership #598. He was an eager student of the woodturning process and always wanted his current piece to be his best work. He was a charter member of the Wisconsin Woodturners, Northeast Wisconsin Woodturners, Badger Woodturners, and Bay Lakes Woodturners and a member of the Chicago Woodturners and Collectors of Wood Art. Binh Pho got to know Don in 1998, and together they attended many symposiums until his health started failing in 2006. Don enjoyed meeting and talking with other turners and became friends with Curt Theobald, Steve Sinner, Kevin Wallace, Don Derry, Graeme Priddle, Bert Marsh, Ray Key, and Alain Mailland. Donald left behind a few pieces that he wanted to donate to the EOG auction in Tampa 2013. His anonymous contribution to the field of woodturning will be felt for many years.

Terry Smith (Mar 31, 2013)
Middle Georgia Woodturners founder and president Terry Smith passed away after a long battle in the hospital. Burial with firefighter honors was atCedar Ridge Cemetery in Gray. Terry was born in Macon. A graduate of Jones County High School, he was a retired firefighter with the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department, having earned the rank of sergeant and serving for 30 years. He was an avid woodtruner and was the founder and president of the Middle Georgia Woodturners. He was also a member of the Middle Georgia Woodworkers, the Barnesville Woodturners, the Peach State Woodturners, and the American Association of Woodturners.

Robert H. Tuck (Jan 2013)
Of Portland OR, an AAW member since December 1986.

William "Bill" Stacy (Feb 2, 2013)
Born in Winchester KY on May 20, 1948. An extremely ethical business man, Bill endowed an Engineering Ethics Education Series at the University of Kentucky in 2008. Bill enjoyed a rewarding 37-year career with BellSouth/AT&T, retiring as CIO/Vice President of Telecommunications Business Markets. Bill was always reading, learning, growing and teaching. He was an avid woodworker and collector of antique tools and very much loved the ocean and beach.

Jerry Glaser (Jan 8, 2013)
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Jerry Glaser, who passed away of a heart attack. He was a pioneer in the woodturning field. He began turning seriously in the 1950s, and his work was exhibited at major shows in the 1960s, alongside Sam Maloof and Bob Stocksdale. Being an engineer, he began making tools after having a conversation with Bob, who talked about what he wanted in a turning tool. Jerry was able to produce the Stocksdale gouge in high speed steel. Although more like a hobby than a business, Jerry created a line of the highest quality woodturning tools, including gouges, skews, scrapers, and screw chuck. Jerry was 93. Register your AAW 20th Anniversary commemorative edition Jerry Glaser gouges.

Frank "Mir" Verner (Dec 28, 2012)
Of Mahtomedi, MN.

Will Dawson (Dec 27, 2012)
Willard Dawson passed away in Concord CA. Born in 1933, he was active in drama, music, and photography, journalism, and English. He served in the Navy, was a Berkeley CA police officer, and was a member of the Office of Naval Intelligence. He later worked for the Bay Area Rapid Transit (northern California), retiring to Oregon to take up woodturning and carving, teaching woodturning in his shop. Additional pastimes included watercolor painting, astronomy, leatherwork, and foreign languages.

Kenneth D. Neitzel (Nov 28, 2012)
Of South Milwaukee WI.

Don Comer (Nov 15, 2012)
Don was a great woodturning friend and exceptional woodturner. He was an integral and valuable part of Glendale Woodturners Guild, serving as its president for several years. The summer 2004 issue of the American Woodturner journal ran an article about the Glendale Woodturners as a "Chapter Highlight," and Don's spiral-carved cocobolo vessel was featured. He had hollowed it to about 3-8" thick and then hand-carved 1-4"-deep spiral grooves to perfection. In his "real life," Don had been an aerospace manager of small satellite programs.

Robert "Bob" Matern (Oct 9, 2012)
Bob, of Lucas TX, passed away October 9, 2012. He earned his degrees from the University of Michigan and moved to Texas in 1967 to work for Touche, Ross, Bailey & Smart, and then the Berkeley Insurance Group before starting his own CPA business. He returned to & retired from Berkeley. Bob & his family moved to Murphy TX in 1976, where he enjoyed volunteering for the Murphy VFD and serving as Mayor pro tem. Bob was an avid woodturner and was a member of Southwest Association of Turners, Dallas Area Wood Turners, and Hunt County Wood Turners. Please send donations to the Selwyn College Preparatory School via the Northstar Bank, c-o Selwyn School, 400 North Carroll Blvd., Denton TX 76201.

William "Bill" Neddow (Oct 2, 2012)
Bill, 72, passed away on October 2, 2012. He began his career in journalism before turning his talents to public service, retiring from the Department of Finance in 1997 and finding a true passion in woodturning. This hobby became all-consuming and led to him discovering a second family of woodturners from all around the world. The family would appreciate donations to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Bill Jewell (Jun 21, 2012)
Many of you knew Bill, the founder of the Historical Woods project. Bill developed a brain aneuryism and passed away June 24. For those who had the pleasure of working with Bill, you had to admire his unending enthusiasm for the medium. Bill was always upbeat and worked tirelessly to promote his project and the many talented artists he was able to enlist in it. He will be missed.

Bill McCoy (May 17, 2012)
A charter member of Willamette Valley Wooodturners in Salem OR and Beaverstate Woodturners in Eugene OR, Bill passed away on May 17. He was an accomplished turner, extremely knowledgeable and unselfish with his talent and knowledge. He knew who was in the greater arena and what & how they were doing their specialty. Even though beset by health issues in later years, Bill continued to turn and make lovely gifts for family and friends. It would be hard to find someone with a greater scope of knowledge concerning the turning world and turners. He was a member of the Northwest Chapter of the International Wood Collectors Society. A dedicated citizen, Bill and his wife Verlean were instrumental in bringing a library to the community of Creswell OR. Anyone who knew what they were looking at appreciated Bill's talents right up front. He has give numerous demonstrations for clubs and helped many individuals unselfishly. He will be missed.

Phil Brennion (May 15, 2012)
Phil Brennion passed away May 15 at the age of 58. He was a professional woodworker since 1976, joining the AAW in 1987. He was active, involved, and highly respected within the woodturning world. He served on the AAW Board of Directors 2002-2005 and as president those last two years. He was an effective leader, skillful organizer, excellent communicator, and a visionary. In the most positive way, he motivated people with whom he worked. He was always open to new ideas and was instrumental in starting the AAW Youth Program and the Professional Outreach Program. He also initiated and promoted the AAW's permanent collection. Many knew Phil from his leadership positions in the AAW. The list of other accomplishments includes talented woodturner; teacher in Chino Valley AZ, where he was instrumental in creating an unprecedented woodturning program at Yavapai College; co-owner of Van Gogh’s Ear, a successful crafts gallery in Prescott; and author of articles in American Woodturner and WOOD magazine. Phil made the most of each day. His determination, knowledge, positive attitude, and friendliness were inspirational. Those who knew him were deeply saddened by the debilitating circumstances he encountered over the years and now mourn his recent passing. At the same time, our memories of the man, the turner, the teacher, the leader, and his spirit will forever be cherished. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Prescott Area Woodturners, Prescott AZ.

Jim Bohmer (Apr 1, 2012)
Jim was a member of North Coast Woodturners since May 1993 and treasurer from 1998 through 2004. During Jim's membership, he did several demos for the club and helped in the teaching program mentoring new turners. He was very passionate about wood turning and always willing to help members in the club. He will be missed by all.

Henry E. Cahill (Jan 26, 2012)
Henry E. Cahill, 90, of Abington died on Thanksgiving Morning at the Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital. Cahill has been a member of AAW since 1986 and was a founder and former President of the South Shore Wood Turners Club.

Robert E. Bahr (Jan 1, 2012)
Robert E. Bahr, M.D., 79, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2012 at his home in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was a Medical Doctor and co-founder with First Care Physicians for 39 years, retiring in 1997. He founded NEI Chiselers and Turners Woodturning Club, member of Artlink and Fort Wayne Museum of Art; and enjoyed golfing and cycling.

Ed Moore (Nov 9, 2011)
Edward MooreC. Edward Moore, 73, died Wednesday, November 9, 2011, at his home in Burnt Chimney VA. Mr. Moore was a native of Seaford DE. Carrying on a family tradition, he was a master woodworker. He designed and crafted custom furniture for homes in Annapolis. Artifacts of Maryland history are displayed at the state's Court of Appeals Building in a case built by Mr. Moore. He authored numerous articles for woodworking publications. He shifted his attention to woodturning and made his mark with ornaments and decorative boxes. He led the organization of the Smith Mountain Lake Woodturners Club and was an instructor at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown NC.

Norene Nish (Sep 6, 2011)
Norene NishThe AAW board and staff are sad to learn of the passing of Norene Nish, wife of Dale Nish. We wish to express our condolences to the family and hope they find comfort with the wonderful memories of joyful times together as we celebrate a life well lived. In loving memory of a wonderful supportive person that was dedicated to family and community. Norene will be missed.

Ken Sager (Aug 31, 2011)
We have received word that Ken Sager, the Founding President of the New Zealand National Association of Woodturners, passed away at the end of August. Ken forged many ties between US and NZ. At 90, Ken was still going to his workshop to turn a bowl every day. Ken often traveled to the Utah and AAW symposiums and demonstrated for numerous AAW chapters. He was instrumental in bringing many US turners to NZ. Ken was a source of inspiration to all the turners in NZ and a a few years ago was awarded a Queens honor for his services to woodturning and the community. He will be deeply missed.

Bert Marsh (May 22, 2011)
Bert MarshBert Marsh, a prominent English turner, passed away on May 22, 2011. After suffering heart problems for a number of years, Bert passed during a recent operation trying and correct them. He is survived by his wife Mary and two sons. Bert was made an Honorary Life Member of the Association of Woodturners of Great Britain in August 2009 for his contribution to woodturning.

Joan Gilmer Kelly (May 17, 2011)
Joan KellyJoan Kelly passed away on May 17 from complications that were a result of a woodturning injury. Joan would be flabbergasted at the impact her passing has had on the woodturning world. She will be greatly missed by many.

W. Keith Adams (Mar 19, 11)
W. Keith Adams of Decatur IL passed away on Saturday, March 19. He was passionate about turning wood and was honored to have been one of the founding members of the Association and wasmentioned in a recent article.

Russ Fairfield (Jan 4, 2011)
RussThe woodturning community has lost one of it's finest with the passing of Russ Fairfield. Russ was a prolific turner and teacher. He was a frequent demonstrator at clubs and symposiums around the country. Russ authored articles for numerous websites, magazines and journals including the AAW American Woodturner. Russ was an Army veteran, a graduate of the University of Washington, devoted husband, father and grandfather. At his family's request, two of Russ' dear friends turned an urn for his ashes. At his service, members of the Inland Northwest Woodturners brought sawdust and woodchips to be included with his ashes so that Russ could rest with a representation of the art and friends he loved.

Dale Brobst (Apr 11, 2010)
Dale passed away on April 11 as a result of injuries sustained in a house fire on April 6th that destroyed everything in his home. He was apparently working on a piece he had turned when the fire broke out, and did not have a fire extinguisher close at hand, which every shop should have. Dale is survived by his wife of 40 years, Clairece. A talented and well-known turner.

Gordon Little (Mar 30, 2009)
Gordon Little, fellow woodturner and collector, passed away this last Tuesday, March 30, from complications of a stroke.

Giovanni Mastrangelo (Apr 17, 2009)
Giovanni "Doc” Mastrangelo, 72, of Flintstone, was killed in an accident on Friday, April 17, 2009. The newest of his many endeavors was woodturning, and in typical fashion, he eagerly read, watched videos, practiced, and attended workshops – all the while passing his new skills on to his grandchildren.

Jerry Rush (Apr 9, 2009)
AAW member and former President of the Panhandle Area Turners Society in Amarillo TX, Jerry Rush passed away suddenly in November 2008. Jerry was an inspiration and motivator to club members and the community.

Doug Newlove (Apr 1, 2009)
We are very sorry to have to report the death of AAW member Doug Newlove of Toronto Canada.

Don Hunkins (Nov 23, 2008)
Don was a long time member of the Sawdust & Woodchips Woodworking Association and joined the CNY Woodturners about 4 or 5 years ago. Because of his health, he was not really allowed to be around woodworking, but he loved the interaction, information, and friendships he made through the clubs. Whenever possible, he was always there to help with our projects.

Jim Bryne (2008)
The wood turning world lost a good friend this year in Jim Byrne. If you knew Jim and think back to when you first met him, you were probably drawn to him by his quick wit and disarming smile. Yet behind that great smile and humble attitude was a man with diverse talents.

Doug Barnes (Jul 23, 2008)
Doug Barnes, 68, of Murphy NC, died Wednesday, July 23, 2008. A native of McMinnville TN, he had lived in Cherokee County for the past 27 years. Doug retired in 1993 to pursue a life of woodturning. Doug was President of the Brasstown Woodturners Guild for many years. He was the Resident Artists in Woodturning at the John C. Campbell Folk School and was instrumental in pursuing the dream of a fellow woodturner in getting the new woodturning studio built. Memorials be made Doug Barnes to the John C. Campbell Folk School Woodturning Program, Brasstown NC.

Everett "Frank" Lynn (May 5, 2008)
Note the passing of AAW member Frank Lynn, a locally well known, great pen and bowl turner. He also made many a turners tools. He will be missed.

Catharine Feringa (Oct 29, 2007)
Catharine (Cathy) Louise Feringa, age 35, passed away October 29. She was the youngest daughter of Tymen and Faye Clay, of Oneway Manufacturing, located in Stratford Ontario, Canada. The Clay family have been members of the AAW for many years, always active at our AAW Symposiums as a trade show vendor and a major supporter of our hobby and trade.

Paul Cavanagh (2007)
Paul Cavanagh, our Secretary and member of the Chicago Woodturners for many years, has passed away. A rocket scientist (literally), world sailor, wood artist and collector, and a dedicated family man, the sadness of his unexpected passing is countered by the remembrance of the many wonderful and important things he had accomplished. A kind and generous man, Paul was always the first to volunteer for a club project. He came to every meeting, arriving early to help with set-up and always stayed late to help clean up. He made numerous contributions to the club over the years, both in expertise, equipment and materials. It was through Paul’s efforts that the Chicago Woodturners were able to acquire our most recent classroom lathe. Paul made the first, generous contribution to the fund that will make possible the first Midwest Woodturning Symposium, to be held in 2008. He was among the first to volunteer for a Symposium committee post. Paul was always available to help set up for a Guest Demonstration, and attended nearly every demo held in the last seven years. He took great joy in even the simplest of duties, and without Paul, there would not have been fresh doughnuts at every demonstration. Paul had an eye for great turned art pieces, and was proud of his collection. He not only purchased work from established lathe artists, but pieces from emerging artists whom he felt showed promise and deserved support. To many of us, that makes him a true patron of the art of woodturning. His contributions to the Chicago Woodturners, the AAW, and the world of turned art are many and varied. A true gentleman, he will be greatly missed.

Frank Sudol (Dec 2006)
Frank left us at the age of 72. He was known as one of the world's leaders in the woodturning community, exciting aficionados and art collectors with his style of piercing thinly milled birch. He created works known for their color, animal shapes and woven filigree designs. He lived in Paddockwood, Saskatchewan Canada and was a member of the Prince Albert Woodturners Guild. Frank was also a member of the AAW for many years. He was to be one of our featured demonstrators at the summer 2007 Portland Symposium. Frank was an inspirational speaker. In one interview with a local newspaper, he shared his philosophy for being a successful artist. "The message for my students is you will never be remembered for what you copied, but you will be remembered for what you created ...Once you reach inside, you will have original work." He is survived by his partner Lois Laycraft and his Children. Photos of Frank and his work.

William C. "Bill" Floate (Sep 19, 2006)
William C. "Bill" Floate - A member of the Chicago Woodturners since 1995, passed away on September 19, 2006. Bill contributed to the Chicago Woodturners, the AAW, the Collectors of Wood Art and many other organizations in both spirit and substance. Bill, along with his wife, Carole, were responsible for publishing and distribution of "As the Wood Turns” for many years. Short deadlines and long hours were no problem for Bill. The newsletter always reached the membership on time. He had a keen eye for excellence in woodturning, and frequently took the stage as a reviewer at our monthly meetings. His critiques always pointed out the virtues of a piece, and if there was criticism, it was always accompanied by an explanation of his opinion, encouragement for future work, and an understanding of both the artistic and technical challenges woodturning presents. The Floates opened their home to visiting demonstrators, making travel arrangements, entertainment for their guests, and hosting wonderful dinner parties, where Bill’s graciousness as a host and skills as a chef were always appreciated. Bill’s contributions to the woodturning community and his family and friends will remain an inspiration to all of us. Contributions may be made to Condell Hospice Foundation, Libertyville IL.

Long time resident of Beecher, Chicago area. Resident of Eureka CA since 1983
Graduate of Lane Tech, Chicago Il
Graduate of University of Pittsburgh
Served the US Army Air Corps in WW II as a bomber pilot & flight instructor
Commander & Helicopter pilot with the 33rd Maintenance Battalion of the Illinois National Guard with rank of Major
Former President of Tinley Park Archery Club
Cabinetmaker & former member of Carpenter’s Union-Local 272
Recently honored by The College of the Redwoods Wood Fair. 2006 Wood Fair was dedicated to William Giese. Perhaps best known for his segmented woodturnings. Has won many prizes for his works.
Avid Fly fisherman and wood turner

Norma G. Bell (June 2, 2006)
Norma G. Bell, 90, of Lake George, Fremont, died Friday, June 2, 2006. He was a former Fort Wayne Businessman. Following the war in 1945, he and associate Robert Federspiel founded Customcraft, Inc., designing and fabricating custom commercial cabinetry, and industrial products used in trade exhibits. After Customcraft, Inc. was sold in 1979 and became Icon, Inc., he served as General Manager until retiring in 1981. He was very active in the Jaycees, Optimist, Rotary, Fort Wayne Advertising Club, Indiana Manufacturing Association, the Fort Wayne Builders Association, and the Exhausted Roosters Club (former Jaycees). He also was instrumental in the efforts to have the Coliseum built, the Embassy Theater saved and restored, and was involved in with the first Sports and Home Shows locally. He and his brother-in-law, John Larimore, co-designed and built the Inland Cat, one of the very first all fiberglass sailboats built. A large fleet of Inland Cats continue to be active at Lake George. After retirement, he became an avid woodturner, and belonged to the International Wood Collectors and the American Woodturners associations. Survivors include his wife, Patricia; son, Gregory Bell (Cathy Husar); daughter, Kathleen Skinner; grandson, Andrew Skinner; and sister, Bette Reed. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Larimore in 1988; brothers, Bruce, Ray, Bob and Noble, and sisters, Helen Bell and Agnes Wilson.

Earl Choromokos (May 4, 2006)
Earl Choromokos, past Vice President and President of the Ohio Valley Woodturners Guild passed away on Thursday, May 4, 2006. He was 67 years old. Earl had been involved in the leadership of the OVWG since 1994 in some capacity. He was instrumental in starting the original and successive symposiums put on by the Guild. Membership grew quite rapidly due in part to many demonstrations at shopping centers and tool stores. Earl invited many beginning and experienced turners to his shop every Wednesday for many years. We all enjoyed the camaraderie and sharing that is so typical of woodturners. Everyone enjoyed his wit and intelligence. Earl worked for the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after being recruited out of Chicago's Northwestern University. His specialty was photographing the eye. From what we understand many diseases can be diagnosed using this method and he was just one of two people with this specialty in the United States. He also trained doctors from across the US in his specialty. Earl is survived by his wife, Mary, a daughter, Nikki, two grandchildren, Sean and Alexis, and three brothers, Louie, James, and Sandy. His family, friends, and woodturning friends will miss him a great deal. Memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, Cincinnati OH.

Sidney L. Rogers (Mar 26, 2005)
Sidney Lorenzo Rogers, 81, husband of Mary Sue Valvero Rogers, died at home on March 26, 2005. Born in Carthage, Mo., the son of the late Henry Elias and Lillie Mae White Rogers, Mr. Rogers was the caretaker at Laurel Baptist Church and a graduate of Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute. He also served in the U.S. Navy, was a Mason and a Shriner, and was active with the Greenville Literacy Society, Piedmont Woodcarvers, Carolina Mountain Woodturners, and the American Association of Woodturners. Sid was an accomplished musician, donating much of his time and talent to local nursing homes. He will be missed by his family and many friends.

Rev. Ellis Willard Baxter, Jr. (Jun 28, 2004)
Reverend Ellis Willard Baxter, Jr., age 71, of Gainesville GA, passed away at home Monday June 28, 2004. Mr. Baxter was the son of the late Ellis Willard Baxter Sr., and Thelma Stevens Baxter. Funeral services were held Thursday July 1, 2004 at Lakewood Baptist Church with burial following in Memorial Park Cemetery. Dr. Tom Smiley, Sheriff Steve Cronic, Rev. Bob Baxter and Rev. Don Ormsbee officiate. Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Sarah Holcombe Baxter, Gainesville; daughters, LouAnne Baxter, Sandy Springs; Mary Elizabeth Baxter, Gainesville; brother-in-law, David Holcombe, Douglasville; nephew, Jeff Holcombe, Aurora CO; niece and great-niece, Julie and Madeline Grace Cromie, Winston GA; and numerous cousins. Rev. Baxter was born in Harralson County, Georgia, but made his home in Hall County. Mr. Baxter was ordained a Baptist Minister at the age of 19. Rev. Baxter graduated from Mercer University, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, North Carolina Baptist Hospital School of Pastoral Care, and was Assistant Administrator at the Georgia Baptist Children's Home. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy after which he served for 17 years as bi-vocational Pastor and Law Enforcement Officer in Gwinnett and Hall Counties. Among the churches he served as pastor include, Belmont Baptist Church, Gainesville, GA and Bethel Baptist Church, Bethlehem, GA, and Pastor and Pastor Emeritus at Lakewood Baptist Church Gainesville, GA. He also held a host of Baptist affiliated denominational positions, and was a member of Johnnie's Hill Masonic Lodge. Willard was a master woodturner. Ten years ago John C. Campbell Folk School, in Brasstown NC, was introduced to Willard – a true wood turner with a background of organization and perseverance. Willard became the resident artist for wood turning. Things started to change. Soon, wood turning became the most sought after class in the program. The class facilities were improved, but space was limited. Willard developed a plan for the total wood arts program. It was based on adding space to the existing building, changing the location of the various wood classes within the building, providing more teaching and working space, bringing utilities up to code, providing better air filtration, increasing equipment, and many other improvements to be able to increase the number of classes and students – all within a pleasant environment. Willard was unable to see the beginning of his plan, having passed away from a victim of brain cancer. It is the goal at the John C Campbell Folk School to finish his dream. When completed, it will be known as the "Willard Baxter Wood Arts Center." A fund-raiser has being initiated in order to raise $ 95,000. Please contact the John C. Campbell Folk School for further information.

Dr. Bob McNeil (Sep 25, 2004)
It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of #29 in the AAW list of members, Dr. Bob McNeil, a wood turner, sponsor and advocate. He is survived by his wife Dede (also an excellent turner), daughter Margie, and sons Robert & Don. Dr. Bob was an accomplished wood turner and one of the founding members of the Central Coast Woodturners. Through his generosity the club was able to see several demonstrations from professional wood turners such as Rudy Osolnick, David Ellsworth, Melvin Firmager, Ray Key and Gerry Glaser. He and Dede sponsored many club functions. Dr. Bob invited new members to his shop and helped them get started. Then he would encourage them to join AAW and attend professional lessons. I think his mantra was to think outside the box; every challenge project was incredibly creative. He will be missed by the wood turning community and especially by the Central Coast Woodturners.

Reidar Klemetsen (Apr 30, 2004)
The Bayou Woodturners lost a great craftsman on April 30, 2004. Reidar Klemetsen, originally of Norway, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana succumbed to a cancer related illness. Reidar (Radar) was a master craftsman and founding member of The Bayou Woodturners. Known as the luckiest man in the club's monthly wood raffle and a man who could appreciate fine woodworking. His friendship and talent be missed by all woodturners.

Don M. Westerman (Jan 31, 2004)
Don M. Westerman, Born September 20, 1920, passed away at noon, Saturday, at the age of 83, in Jacksonville FL, where he & June had moved in September of last year. The remains have been cremated. June is planning a "Life Celebration and Ashes Dispersal Party" sometime in May in Key West FL. Don had wanted his ashes to be spread on the waters of the Gulf Stream. She will be happy to have any of his friends attend who wish to. Just call or write and let her know. Don was born in Minneapolis MN, and grew up in Rockwell City IA. He started turning when he was 11 years old, taught by his grandfather. His family was in the lumber business and this provided a great background for a kid bitten by the woodworking bug. He attended college in Ames, Iowa and graduated with a BA in architectural engineering. He spent four and a half years as a pilot in the Air Corps during WW II. After the war he studied naval architecture and went on to a career of building and designing pleasure boats: As chief engineer at Thunderbird Boats; Director of Product Development at Well Craft Marine, VP of Engineering at Chris Craft and Director of Product Development and Design Engineering at Donzi. He spent his last two years as VP of engineering at S-2 Yachts in Holland, MI. After retirement he did some consulting for Yamaha of Japan. Since retirement and taking up woodturning in earnest, Don had his work displayed in several museums and galleries, including Germany, France, Denmark and Japan. Don was instrumental in starting the Brasstown Woodturners. Sometime in May 1993, he, Herb Mulligan, and Lissi Oland got together and decided that there were enough woodturners in the area to try to form a group to help each other. The first meeting was held in Westerman's back yard the evening of July 6, 1993. He had suffered from emphysema for several years, which was the main reason for the recent move to Florida. Don was a good man and a talented artist. We will miss him.

Palmer Sharpless (2003)
It has been almost a year since we lost Palmer Sharpless. In his memory, Mark Krick of Doylestown, PA has created a 6'5" honey dipper (Palmer was about that tall and was well known for his honey dippers). This honey dipper will be on display at The Wood Turning Center in Philadelphia. Mark asks that anyone who was touched by Palmer in some way turn a honey dipper, split it in half and write a memory or thought about Palmer on it and send it to him. The idea here is that you keep half of the honey dipper Palmer and the other half would be on display. Whole honey dippers are also acceptable as well as other small turnings that you may deem appropriate. Mark would like to receive the dippers by Thanksgiving if at all possible.